The IEC 61215, respectively EN 61215, comprises the examination of all parameters which are responsible for the ageing of PV modules and describes the various qualification tests on the basis of the artificial load of the materials. In particular one differs between the following load groups: Sunlight incl.

UV Climate (changing of climates, coldness, warmth, humidity) Mechanical load (hail, wind suction, wind pressure, snow) The tests are judged to be passed, if after the qualification tests no major visual defects are detected and the output power has not or only slightly degraded from its initial value. The qualification certificate corresponding to IEC 61215 has gained acceptance in the past few years as the quality symbol for crystalline PV modules. Nowadays such a certificate is required for most national and international funding programs.

The IEC 61215 standard was initially developed in 1993. The second edition was published in April 2005. Though modules are still being qualified per the first edition as of December 2005, the full implementation of the second edition is around the corner. The major changes from the first edition apply to the Thermal Cycling test and Ultra-violet tests. The Twist test was removed and the Diode test added.

 

Published on Oct 1, 2004 This part of IEC 61730 describes the testing requirements for photovoltaic (PV) modules in order to provide safe electrical and mechanical operation during their expected lifetime. Specific topics are provided to assess the prevention of electrical shock, fire hazards, and personal injury due to mechanical and environmental stresses. IEC 61730-1 pertains to the particular requirements of construction. This part of IEC 61730 outlines the requirements of testing.

This standard attempts to define the basic requirements for various application classes of photovoltaic modules, but it cannot be considered to encompass all national or regional building codes. The specific requirements for marine and vehicle applications are not covered. This standard is not applicable to modules with integrated AC inverters (AC modules).

This standard is designed so that its test sequence can co-ordinate with those of IEC 61215 or IEC 61646, so that a single set of samples may be used to perform both the safety and performance evaluation of a photovoltaic module design.

The test-sequences of this standard are arranged in an optimal way so that tests of IEC 61215 or IEC 61646 can be used as basic preconditioning tests.

 

Published in Mar 15, 2002, these requirements cover flat-plate photovoltaic modules and panels intended for installation on or integral with buildings, or to be freestanding (that is, not attached to buildings), in accordance with the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, and Model Building Codes.